Leela Gray

A third-generation veteran, attorney, business leader, and mother, Brigadier General (Ret) Leela Gray has never backed down from a tough fight. Raised with humble beginnings, Leela learned early on what it means to earn your way—working hard in middle and high school, from babysitting and lifeguarding to fast food service and waiting tables. Her father opened a small auto shop, and while her family relied on food stamps at times, they never stopped working to make ends meet. 

Driven by a call to serve, Leela became an ROTC cadet and rose steadily through the ranks of  the U.S. Army, working relentlessly to earn every opportunity and receiving recognition for her  grit, determination, and character. Leela served more than 30 years in uniform, including two combat deployments and a peacekeeping mission. She represented the United States overseas and strengthened combat readiness for our forces in the Middle East. Leela was always focused on one mission: working for the men and women beside her and the American families counting on them back home. 

While serving in the Army Reserve, Leela built a successful civilian career in technology and strategic communications, growing businesses, managing budgets, and serving on advisory boards. After retiring from the military, she earned her law degree, helping veterans access healthcare and other critical benefits. 

Leela is running for Congress because she knows leadership is about solving problems, protecting our freedoms, and standing up for hardworking Americans, not Washington elites. 

Leela and her husband, Tony, have lived in the Tampa Bay area for more than 20 years and are proud parents of their daughter, Bailly.